Although deacons did not have the authority to baptize or administer the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, they could sign letters certifying the good standing of Saints who moved from one congregation to another and assist elders in keeping current lists of members.4

In September 1832, a revelation designated the office of deacon as an appendage to the lesser priesthood, later called the Aaronic priesthood, and directed deacons to serve as “ministers unto the church.”7